[2012 2.5premium cvt]

To my great surprise I've seen two Tribecas in the last couple months, both clean and apparently well kept up. I hardly ever saw them when they were new. It's got to be difficult to maintain old Tribecas. Wonder if these were still in the hands of the original owners. Or in the hands of 2nd or 3rd owners who found that a well maintained old Subaru is a cheap used car, which they make into a beater. That's the fate of many an old well kept Subaru that was once like a member of someone's family.

Got to wonder if Ascent will follow in the footsteps of Tribeca. Seems to me a next gen Ascent will have to borrow heavily from a Toyota counterpart. IMO there will be a next gen, because Subaru needs a car in that segment.

I am in a neighborhood with a number of Subarus, including several Ascents. I'd love to know the marketing demographics. The Ascents seem to be driven by young moms with children and pets to carry. What made them look outside the mainstream to buy Ascents? I think Subaru marketing strategy, love, pets, family, was key to their decision. Would they have bought them if they were rebadged Toyotas?

And whither the next gen Outback? Probably too late to change the course for the very next gen, but after that??

 

[2012 2.5premium cvt]

All Tribecas had either the H6 3.0R or the H6 3.6R engine, coupled to the 5EAT transmission - which I believe contributed significantly to their durability and longevity.

I think the jury is still out on the Ascent's H4 2.4 turbo and CVT longevity. Time will tell.

Yup the H6's pf that era were wonderful with great longevity and fine for smooth and strong hiway cruising. It was sad that the H6 got axed. Maybe inevitable but for sure ALSO just about impossible to replace, IMO.

PS I have not driven a 2.4 turbo, so don't know how it may compare to the H6. I meant I think Ascent will follow in the footsteps of Tribeca by becoming likewise a discontinued model. The Ascent model name may continue, but without Subaru drivetrain.